Senior Finance and Budget Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is an organization established by the UN General Assembly with the mission to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. It serves as the focal point for all urbanization and human settlement matters within the UN system. UN-Habitat collaborates with various partners to build inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities, aiming to reduce inequality, discrimination, and poverty. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on urbanization as a transformative force for people and communities.

Job Overview:
The Senior Finance and Budget Assistant position is located in the Budget, Finance and Operational Support Section (BFOSS) within the Corporate Management Division (CMD) at UN-Habitat's Nairobi duty station. The role involves providing strategic guidance and coordinating administrative, operational, and program support services essential for the successful delivery of UN-Habitat’s mandate. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the Budget and Finance Officers, taking on responsibilities that include budget preparation, analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis, and ensuring compliance with UN financial regulations. The position requires a proactive approach to managing financial resources and supporting the organization's financial operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Finance and Budget Assistant include acting as Certifying Officers in the absence of program management officers, reviewing and preparing program plans and budget proposals, assisting in the finalization of cost estimates, monitoring budget implementation and expenditures, and ensuring compliance with regulations. The incumbent will also analyze complex cost recovery transactions, assist with billing processes, review clearing accounts, and prepare financial statements for various funds. Additionally, the role involves providing guidance and training to staff, drafting correspondence related to financial matters, and keeping up-to-date with financial regulations and guidelines.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in finance, budget, accounting, or administrative services. This requirement is reduced to eight years for those with a first-level university degree. A minimum of five years of experience in budgetary and financial operations is also required. Familiarity with an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system such as Oracle or SAP, as well as experience with UN financial rules and regulations, is desirable. Knowledge of International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) and experience in data analytics are also advantageous.

Educational Background:
Completion of a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Supplemental training in accounting, finance, and budget or related fields is desirable, although specific job-related qualifications are not detailed in the posting.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of relevant experience in finance, budget, accounting, or administrative services. Candidates with a first-level university degree may have this requirement reduced by two years. Additionally, at least five years of experience in budgetary and financial operations is necessary, along with experience using ERP systems in finance and budget modules. Experience with UN financial regulations or similar international organizations is preferred, as well as familiarity with IPSAS and data analytics.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, but English is the primary language required for this job opening.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, with any extensions subject to the availability of funds. The position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. Staff members in this category are not eligible for international recruitment benefits. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its recruitment process.